§ Mr. Lyonsasked the Minister of Supply what progress has been made in the obtaining of binoculars for the Services; whether it is now proposed to take steps for compulsory acquisition; and what cost has been incurred in advertisement?
§ Mr. Harold MacmillanTwenty-two thousand pairs of binoculars were obtained from previous appeals and 45,000 as a result of the recent campaign. They are still being handed in and a total of 55,000 serviceable pairs is hoped for. Compulsory powers have been used in certain instances to requisition binoculars from some trade sources, but as at present advised my right hon. Friend does not propose to take steps for compulsory general acquisition in view of the result of the campaign and of the supplies now coming forward from manufacturers in this country. It is not possible to give the precise cost of advertisement and publicity, but a sum of £10,000 was allowed for this purpose. I may add that approximately 40 per cent. of the binoculars handed over and accented were gifts. I should like to take this opportunity of expressing our appreciation of the public spirit of donors and lenders.